Meet Natalie Gossett

Think back to your life before Christ.

1. Write down one word to describe your character. 
2. Write down one word to illustrate your reputation. 

How many of you wrote down "wise" as a character trait? Or "innocent"? What about your reputation? Were you known for your faithfulness? For me, none of the above. Not even REMOTELY close.

In Romans 16:19, Paul used the word obedience describe the church in Rome (even before he says anything else). In the midst of persecution, false teachings, and division, Paul witnessed the church growing closer to Christ. They desired to do what is good. And because of this, Paul rejoiced. #goals

Paul desired for the church to "be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil." (Romans 16:19) The church was known for its obedience, but Paul still provided caution one more time. They would have troubles, but Paul encouraged them to continue to be wise and discern good versus evil.

Joshua tells us, "Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it." (Joshua 1:8, NIV)

When Paul references "innocent as to what is evil," he means it in an experiential sense. Because of Adam and Eve, we have an understanding of good versus evil. We can recognize sin, but should turn away from it with guidance from the Holy Spirit.

Apply assignments 1 and 2 above to your life after Christ.

I bet that the answers changed for most of you. Because of that, the Lord is rejoicing. And Satan is ticked.

Speaking of the devil, Paul mentions him for the first time in verse 20. "The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet."

That's it. Satan gets one mention. And the bottom line is: he's doomed.

My life before Christ looked nothing like the church in Rome that Paul addressed. I failed God daily, but that does not mean Satan was, or is, victorious over my life. Satan HAS BEEN defeated through the death and resurrection of Christ.

Paul finishes the verse by adding, "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you." (Romans 16:20) Our flesh and heart may fail, but His mercy is new each day.